Loaded Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole

surprisingly easy to make. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or even meal prep for the upcoming week. All you need to do is cook the meats, mix the pasta, layer it all in a baking dish, and bake. In about 45 minutes, you’ll have a cheesy, comforting meal ready to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make your own Loaded Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole:

• 1 pound of ground beef: This serves as the base for your casserole, offering that savory, hearty flavor.
• 1/2 pound of sausage: Sausage adds extra flavor and a bit of spice, perfect for meat lovers.
• 1/2 pound of pepperoni slices: The classic pizza topping that brings authenticity and bold taste.
• 6 slices of cooked bacon: Bacon brings a crispy, smoky element to the dish.
• 1 package of pasta (penne or rotini works best): The pasta holds the meaty and cheesy goodness, making it a filling dish.
• 1 jar of pizza sauce: This ties all the ingredients together with a rich, tomato-based flavor.
• 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey, melty cheese is what gives this casserole its indulgent, pizza-like quality.
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the mozzarella.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

How to Make Loaded Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the pasta according to the package directions. Once it’s al dente, drain and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Meats
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and sausage over medium heat. Break up the meat as it cooks, making sure to cook it through until browned. Drain any excess fat. Then, stir in the pepperoni slices and cooked bacon (you can chop the bacon into small pieces if you prefer). Let it all combine and heat together.

Step 3: Mix with Pizza Sauce and Seasonings
Add the pizza sauce to the meat mixture, followed by the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Combine with Pasta
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and the meat mixture. Stir well to ensure that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and meat.

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Step 5: Layer the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish and layer the pasta and meat mixture into the dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, creating a golden, cheesy crust.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice it up and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Make Ahead: This casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking.
• Add Veggies: To sneak in some vegetables, feel free to add diced bell peppers, onions, or even spinach to the meat mixture.
• Cheese Variations: Try swapping out mozzarella and cheddar for other cheeses like provolone, gouda, or parmesan for a unique twist.
• Spicy Twist: For a spicy kick, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Loaded Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole is everything you love about pizza, transformed into a filling, cheesy, and comforting casserole that everyone will enjoy. It’s the ultimate indulgence for meat lovers and pizza fans alike, combining the best of both worlds in one easy-to-make dish.

With layers of savory meat, rich pizza sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this casserole is guaranteed to satisfy even the hungriest appetites. Plus, it’s a great way to feed a crowd or prepare a filling meal for your family. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making this dish on repeat!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a fun and easy meal that packs all the flavor of a pizza but in a more filling and convenient form, the Loaded Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole is the way to go. It’s customizable, cheesy, and loaded with all the meat you could want. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy this mouthwatering comfort food!